Welcome to Reaching for New Horizons!!!!!

This blog was created to share my experiences as I journeyed toward my then Master of Arts degree to my now doctoral degree in Early Childhood. Feel free to share your great experiences in this great field.

Saturday, April 16, 2011

Code of Ethics in the Early Childhood Profession

I have a very high respect for the NAEYC Code of Ethics.  My current preschool program requires our teacher staff to review and sign that they have read, understand and agree with this Code of Ethics.  As I was rereading this code of ethics, two ideas I found significant to me were:

  • Respect the dignity, worth, and uniqueness of each individual (child, family member, and colleague)
  • Recognize that children and adults achieve their full potential in the context of relationships that are based on trust and respect
 I believe we must show respect toward the children we provide educational services for each day by showing them care.  This includes providing them with a safe and loving environment, a daily schedule that is structure yet flexible, and a classroom setting that promotes learning.

The third idea I found significant was within the Division of Early Childhood from the Council of Exceptional Children.

  • We shall engage in ongoing and systematic reflective inquiry and self-assessment for the purpose of continuous improvement of professional performance and services to young children with disabilities and their families.
I believe in being a life long learner and feel educators at every level of education should dedicate themselves to evolving with their professional.  By doing this children are offered well-prepared individuals that will work in the best interest of the children and families that are served.    Moreover parents of children with a special need that work with educators that are experienced and knowledge are able to feel less anxiety regarding their child’s experiences in the classroom.

Saturday, April 2, 2011

Resources

Listed below is a wonderful list of resources for families, educators and advocates.  Additional resources:
Office of Head Start – Early Childhood Learning and Knowledge  - http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc
Teachings Strategies - http://www.teachingstrategies.com/
Parents as Teachers - http://www.parentsasteachers.org/
Children's Advocate: Article on "Preschool builds schools readiness.  http://www.4children.org/issues/2000/september_october/preschool_builds_school_readiness/

Part 1: Position Statements and Influential Practices
Part 2: Global Support for Children’s Rights and Well-Being
Note: Explore the resources in Parts 3 and 4 in preparation for this week’s Application assignment.
Part 3: Selected Early Childhood Organizations
Part 4: Selected Professional Journals Available in the Walden Library
Tip: Use the A-to-Z e-journal list to search for specific journal titles. (Go to “How Do I...?”, select “Tips for Specific Formats and Resources,” and then “e-journals” to find this search interface.) 
  • YC Young Children
  • Childhood
  • Journal of Child & Family Studies
  • Child Study Journal
  • Multicultural Education
  • Early Childhood Education Journal
  • Journal of Early Childhood Research
  • International Journal of Early Childhood
  • Early Childhood Research Quarterly
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Social Studies
  • Maternal & Child Health Journal
  • International Journal of Early Years Education